NIOSH Study Reinforces the Link between Fire Fighting and Cancer

A recent study by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) on cancer rates in fire fighters shows an elevated risk of cancer when compared to the general U.S. population.

This study is one of the largest examining cancer risks in fire fighters, with a study population of 30,000 fire fighters.

Their findings were consistent with previous, smaller studies assessing the cancer risk in fire fighters.

The study identified higher incidence rates of cancers of the respiratory, digestive and urinary systems.

This suggests that fire fighters are more likely to develop these cancers.

The incidence rate of Mesothelioma was two times greater among fire fighters.

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective lining that covers internal organs.

The most common sites are:

The Pleura (outer lining of the lungs and the internal chest wall)

The Peritoneum (lining of abdominal cavity)

The Pericardium (sac around the heart)

The Tunica Vaginalis (sac around the testis).

An occupational exposure to asbestos is a known cause of Mesothelioma.

Fire fighters can be exposed to carcinogens during fire suppression, overhaul activities and in the firehouse. Known carcinogens include diesel exhaust, benzene, formaldehyde, asbestos and other products of combustion byproducts found in smoke. Exposures can occur through inhalation of smoke or diesel exhaust, and skin exposure can occur through contaminated personal protective equipment and turnout gear.

To reduce your overall risk of exposure:

Shower after returning from a fire

Use SCBA during overhaul activities

Perform gross field decontamination of PPE to remove soot and particulates

Remove PPE when in Rehab. If unable to do so due to weather, remove hood from neck and open fly of PPE Pants

Clean your PPE (i.e., gloves, hood and helmet) after a fire

Store PPE in dedicated storage areas and not in living areas of the fire house.